Don Broco have finally made a comeback with ‘Automatic’, the follow up to their 2012 debut ‘Priorities’. What stands out most is how much the Bedford foursome’s sound has changed since their inception. Once labelled post-hardcore with elements of nu-metal; Don Broco has shifted their sound to full on pop rock with the emphasis on pop.

Many of the tracks contain an undeniable funk inspiration, something that is particularly noticeable when the tracks are performed live. Don Broco experiment throughout the album with harmonies and opposing vocals more so than they have done in the past, with drummer Matt Donnelly in particular offering a contrast to lead singer Rob Damiani’s recognisable tone.

Don Broco were never a band that one went to for insightful, deep lyrics and this has not changed on ‘Automatic’. The flippant and light-hearted lyrics are generally cheeky, charming and completely inoffensive. Although this could be seen as a major flaw, they are keeping true to Don Broco form, and fans shouldn’t expect anything else.

‘Automatic’ is a fun album that sees Don Broco try their hands at something new without completely leaving their fans behind. The difference really boils down to the fact that the band have grown up and out of a genre that most people naturally grow out of anyway.

This change may well result in Don Broco playing bigger venues and reaching a wider audiences with their songs now appearing on the likes of Made In Chelsea and Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch.

Although this will turn many people off (for mainly snobby reasons, we suspect), the band still have the edge that made made fans fall for them in the first place.

The notoriously difficult second album puts pressure on any band, but Don Broco have managed to put together a mostly enjoyable album. Sure, there a few disappointments and a lot of (mostly welcome) changes, but ‘Automatic’ is far from a failure – filled with catchy hooks and choruses. It is still Don Broco, just with a twist.